Myofascial treatment apparatus

ABSTRACT

A treatment apparatus configured to provide electrical stimulation to a leg of a user is provided. The treatment apparatus includes an inner layer configured to contact the leg of the user and configured to couple to an electrical stimulus, a retainer fixedly connected to the inner layer, and a fabric layer coupled to the inner layer, the fabric layer configured to releasably couple to the retainer to secure the electrical stimulus against the leg of the user.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of patent application Ser. No.14/073,254, filed Nov. 6, 2013. Patent application Ser. No. 14/073,254is a continuation of Ser. No. 13/293,730 filed Nov. 10, 2011. Patentapplication Ser. No. 13/293,730 is a continuation of patent applicationSer. No. 11/248,406 filed Oct. 12, 2005. Patent application Ser. No.11/248,406 is a continuation of patent application Ser. No. 10/439,418,filed May 16, 2003. Patent application Ser. No. 10/439,418 is acontinuation of patent application Ser. No. 09/738,791, filed Dec. 15,2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,575,926, the contents of which are hereinincorporated by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a new and improved strap or treatmentapparatus and a method of using the strap or treatment apparatus totreat a patient.

A known strap for use in treating a patient includes a layer of foamwhich is connected with a layer of fabric. When the strap is to beutilized to treat a patient, the layer of foam is placed in engagementwith the skin of the patient and the strap is wrapped around a portionof the patient. Known straps which may be utilized for treating apatient are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,811,154 and 5,036,838.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a new and improved strap and method ofusing the strap for treatment of a patient. Base and second end portionsof the strap may be interconnected by a main portion of the strap. Thebase end portion of the strap may have opposite sides with surfaceswhich are formed of foam. The main portion of the strap may have a firstside with a surface which is formed of foam and a second side with asurface which is formed of fabric. If desired, the surfaces formed offoam could be formed of a different material. A retainer may beconnected with the second end portion of the strap to connect the secondend portion of the strap with the main portion of the strap.

When the strap is to be utilized to treat a patient, a layer formed offoam disposed on the first side of the strap may be placed in engagementwith skin on the body of the patient. The base end portion of the strapis retained against movement relative to the body of the patient bywrapping the strap around a portion of the body of the patient andpositioning a portion of the layer formed of foam on the first side ofthe strap in engagement with foam disposed on the second side of thebase end portion of the strap. The second end portion of the strap maybe connected with a fabric layer which forms the second side of thestrap.

If desired, a plurality of straps may be utilized in the treatment ofthe patient. At least some of these straps may have a layer of foamdisposed on a first side of the strap and a layer of fabric disposed ona second side of the strap. The layers of foam on the first sides of thestraps may be positioned in engagement with the skin of the patient andthe straps may be interconnected. Interconnecting of the straps may beperformed by engaging foam on the second side, that is the fabric side,of a strap with the layer of foam on the first side of a strap. Aretainer which, for example, may be a hook and loop type fastener, maybe provided to connect an end portion of one strap with a layer offabric on another strap or with a layer of fabric on the one strap.

It is contemplated that a strap constructed in accordance with thepresent invention may be utilized during the treatment of many differentportions of a patient's body. For example, the strap may be utilized inconjunction with treatment of an arm, hand, leg, foot, shoulder, orother portion of a patient's body. A single strap may be wrapped aroundone or more portions of a patient's body. Alternatively, a first strapmay be wrapped around one portion of a patient's body and a second strapmay be connected with the first strap and wrapped around another portionof a patient's body.

The strap may be utilized to apply force to deep fascia, such asmyofascial tissue. Of course, the strap may also be used to apply forceto superficial fascia. It is contemplated that one or more of the strapsmay be used to increase a patient's proprioception. The straps may alsobe utilized to effect shifting of a bone, such as a patella, in the bodyof a patient. The straps may be used to connect one or more treatmentdevices with a patient.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other features of the invention will become moreapparent upon a consideration of the following description taken inconnection with the accompanying drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is a fragmentary top plan view of a strap constructed inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2 is fragmentary bottom plan view of the strap of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an enlarged sectional view, taken generally along the line 3-3of FIG. 1, illustrating the manner in which a layer of foam on one sideof the strap and a layer of fabric on the opposite side of the strap areinterconnected;

FIG. 4 is an enlarged fragmentary sectional view, taken generally alongthe line 4-4 of FIG. 1, and illustrating a retainer which is connectedwith one end portion of the strap;

FIG. 5 is an enlarged fragmentary sectional view, taken generally alongthe line 5-5 of FIG. 1, illustrating the manner in which foam isprovided on opposite sides of a base end portion of the strap;

FIG. 6 is a fragmentary schematic illustration depicting the manner inwhich the strap of FIG. 1 is positioned relative to a portion of apatient's body with the base end portion of the strap in engagement withskin on the patient's body;

FIG. 7 is a fragmentary schematic illustration, generally similar toFIG. 6, illustrating the manner in which a portion of the strap iswrapped in a loop around a portion of the patient's body and engages thebase end portion of the strap;

FIG. 8 is a fragmentary schematic illustration depicting the manner inwhich an end portion of the strap of FIGS. 6 and 7 is connected withfabric on one side of the strap;

FIG. 9 is a fragmentary schematic pictorial illustration depicting themanner in which the base end portion of the strap of FIG. 1 ispositioned relative to a hand of a patient;

FIG. 10 is a fragmentary pictorial illustration depicting how a foamlayer on one side of the strap of FIG. 9 is positioned in engagementwith foam disposed on the base end portion of the strap to form a loopand to hold the base end portion of the strap against movement relativeto the hand of the patient;

FIG. 11 is a fragmentary schematic pictorial illustration depicting themanner in which the strap is wrapped in a plurality of loops around aregion where the hand and wrist of the patient are interconnected;

FIG. 12 is a fragmentary schematic pictorial illustration depicting themanner in which the base end portion of the strap of FIG. 1 ispositioned relative to the hand and first finger (thumb) of a patient;

FIG. 13 is a schematic pictorial illustration depicting the manner inwhich the strap of FIG. 12 is wrapped in a plurality of loops around thefirst finger of the patient;

FIG. 14 is a schematic pictorial illustration depicting the manner inwhich the strap is wrapped in a plurality of loops around a region ofthe patient where a hand and wrist of the patient are interconnected;

FIG. 15 is a schematic pictorial illustration depicting the manner inwhich the base end portion of the strap of FIG. 1 is positioned relativeto a knee of a patient;

FIG. 16 is a fragmentary schematic pictorial illustration depicting themanner in which the strap is wrapped in a loop around the leg of thepatient adjacent to the knee and engages the base end portion of thestrap;

FIG. 17 is a schematic pictorial illustration depicting the manner inwhich loops of the strap of FIGS. 15 and 16 apply force to a patella ina knee of the patient;

FIG. 18 is a schematic pictorial illustration, generally similar toFIGS. 15 and 16, illustrating the manner in which the strap is furtherwrapped around the leg of the patient and in which an end portion of thestrap is connected with fabric on one side of the strap;

FIG. 19 is a superior view of a patient illustrating the manner in whichthe strap of FIG. 1 is wrapped in a loop around the upper arms and trunkof the patient;

FIG. 20 is a fragmentary pictorial illustration depicting the manner inwhich a second embodiment of the strap of FIG. 1 is looped around thefirst finger (thumb) of a patient prior to wrapping of the strap in aplurality of loops around the hand and region where the hand and wristof the patient are interconnected;

FIG. 21 is a fragmentary schematic pictorial illustration depicting themanner in which a pair of straps utilized in the treatment of scapulamuscles and associated tissue in the body of a patient;

FIG. 22 is a schematic pictorial illustration depicting the manner inwhich a strap may be positioned around a trunk of the patient to retainstraps for treatment of scapula muscles and associated tissue;

FIG. 23 is an enlarged fragmentary schematic illustration, takengenerally along the line 23-23 of FIG. 22, illustrating one manner inwhich a plurality of straps may be interconnected;

FIG. 24 is a schematic illustration of an orthosis which may beconnected with portions of a patient's body;

FIG. 25 is a schematic sectional view, taken generally along the line25-25 of FIG. 24, illustrating the manner in which a cuff of theorthosis of FIG. 24 is lined;

FIG. 26 is a fragmentary schematic illustration depicting an openingformed at a wound or incision in a patient's body;

FIG. 27 is a schematic fragmentary illustration depicting the manner inwhich the opening of FIG. 26 is closed by the use of a plurality ofstraps having the same construction as the strap of FIG. 1;

FIG. 28 (on sheet 2 of the drawings) is a schematic anterior viewillustrating the manner in which the strap of FIG. 1 is connected withan upper portion of one arm and a shoulder of a patient;

FIG. 29 (on sheet 2 of the drawings) is a posterior view of the patientof FIG. 28 and illustrating the manner in which the strap extendsbetween the arm and shoulder of the patient;

FIG. 30 (on sheet 9 of the drawings) is a schematic plan viewillustrating the relationship of a plurality of straps to each other andskin on a portion of a patient's body; and

FIG. 31 is a fragmentary sectional view, taken generally along the line31-31 of FIG. 30, illustrating the manner in which the straps areinterconnected.

DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

Strap Construction

A strap 10 for use in treating a patient is illustrated in FIGS. 1 and2. The strap 10 includes a base end portion 12, a second or retainer endportion 14, and a main portion 16. The main portion 16 extends betweenthe base end portion 12 and retainer end portion 14. The strap 10 has anouter side 20 (FIG. 1) and an inner side 22 (FIG. 2). The inner andouter sides 20 and 22 extend between opposite ends of the strap 10.

The main portion 16 of the strap 10 has an outer side surface 26(FIG. 1) formed by a layer 28 of fabric (FIG. 3). An opposite or innerside surface 32 (FIG. 2) of the strap 10 is formed by a layer 34 offoam. In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIG. 3, thelayer 34 of foam is bonded directly to the layer 28 of fabric. It iscontemplated that the layer 28 of fabric and layer 34 of foam may beinterconnected in a manner similar to that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.5,036,838. In the illustrated embodiment of the invention, the layer 28of fabric and the layer 34 of foam are coextensive with each other.Thus, the layer of fabric and the layer of foam both extend through thebase end portion 12, main portion 16, and retainer end portion 14 of thestrap 10.

The layer 28 of fabric (FIG. 3) is an elasticized polymeric material.The layer 28 of fabric has a loop-type weave similar to the materialwhich forms the loop portion of a hook and loop fastener and iscommercially available under the trademark “Velcro”. The layer 28 offabric has an outer side surface 26 which is relatively slippery. Thesurface 26 of the fabric layer 34 and the skin of a patient have arelatively low coefficient of static friction.

The loop weave of the elasticized fabric layer 28 enables it to beengaged by hook-type fasteners of the “Velcro” (trademark) type. Thus,the layer 28 of fabric has a loop pile which forms the outer side 20 ofthe strap 10. It is preferred to form the layer 28 of fabric with anelasticized construction so that the fabric can be stretched by pullingon the strap 10. However, if desired, the layer 28 of fabric could havea nonelasticized construction and could have a weave other than a loopweave.

The layer 34 (FIG. 3) of foam is connected directly to the layer 28 offabric. The layer 34 of foam is formed with an open celled, elastomericconstruction. The open celled elastomeric construction of the layer 34of foam enables the layer to breath so that fluid can pass through thelayer. The open celled construction of the layer of foam promotespatient comfort when the strap 10 is worn for a relatively long periodof time.

The layer 34 of foam has a side surface 32 which has a relatively highadherence or grippiness compared to the surface 26 on the layer 28 offabric. The surface 32 of the layer 34 of foam and the skin of a patienthave a relatively large coefficient of static friction. The coefficientof static friction between the surface 32 and the layer 34 of foam andthe skin of a patient is greater than the coefficient of static frictionbetween the surface 26 of the layer of fabric 28 and the skin of apatient.

The layer 34 of foam is stretchable so that it can be stretched with thelayer 28 of fabric. The elasticity of the layer 34 of foam is greaterthan the elasticity of the layer 28 of fabric. Thus, the modulus ofelasticity of the layer 34 of foam is greater than the modulus ofelasticity of the layer 28 of fabric.

The layer 34 of foam is an open celled foam of the urethane family andis stretchable in both the longitudinal and transverse directions to agreater extent than the layer 28 of fabric. This results in the layer 34of open celled foam being supported by the layer 28 of fabric when thelayer of fabric is in a stretched or non-stretched condition. It shouldbe understood that the layer 34 of foam could be formed of any desiredopen celled or closed cell polymeric foam material. It is contemplatedthat the layer 34 could be formed of a polymeric material which is not afoam. The layer 34 could be formed of any material having a highcoefficient of friction with skin.

One commercial source of material to form the strap 10 is FabrifoamProducts of Exton, Pa. Of course, other commercial sources of materialfor forming the strap 10 could be utilized if desired.

The layer 28 of fabric and the layer 34 of foam extend through theretainer end portion 14 of the strap 10 (FIGS. 2 and 4). A retainer 38is provided at the retainer end portion 14 of the strap 10. The retainer38 has a rectangular configuration (FIG. 2) and is fixedly connectedwith the layer 34 of foam and layer 28 of fabric by heat staking. Ofcourse, the retainer 38 could be connected with the layer 34 of foam andthe layer 28 of fabric by other methods if desired. For example, theretainer 38 could be bonded to the layer 34 of foam.

The retainer 38 has the same construction as the hook portion of a hookand loop fastener of the “Velcro” (trademark) type. Thus, the retainer38 has an array of hooks 42 which are engagable with the loop-typefabric which forms the layer 28 of fabric. Although it is preferred toutilize a retainer 38 which is engagable with a layer 28 of fabric witha “Velcro” (trademark) hook and loop type fastening action, a differenttype of retainer could be utilized if desired. By forming the retainer38 with the “Velcro” (trademark) hook type construction, the retainer 38can be connected with the layer 28 of fabric at any location along thelength of the layer of fabric. However, other types of retainers couldbe utilized if desired.

The base end portion 12 (FIG. 1) of the strap 10 is formed by doublingthe layer 28 of fabric and the layer 34 of foam back on itself. Thisresults in the base end portion 12 of the strap 10 having adouble-layered construction illustrated in FIG. 5. Thus, the base endportion 12 has an upper (as viewed in FIG. 5) layer 48 and a lower layer50 which are interconnected by a bend 52. The upper layer 48 is heatstaked to the lower layer 50 to interconnect the upper and lower layers48 and 50.

The overlapped construction of the base end portion 12 results in thelayer 28 of fabric and the layer 34 of foam extending in a continuousmanner from the main portion 16 of the strap 10 through the lower layer50 of the base end portion 12, around the bend 52, and through the upperlayer 48 of the base end portion 12. The layer 28 of fabric isintegrally formed as one piece and extends throughout the entire extentof the strap 10. Similarly, the layer 34 of foam is integrally formed asone piece and extends throughout the entire extent of the strap 10.

It should be understood that the base end portion 12 could have adifferent construction. For example, the upper layer 48 could be formedby a separate rectangular segment formed of the same material of themain portion 16 of the strap 12. This separate rectangular segment ofmaterial may be heat staked to the lower layer 50 of the base endportion 12. Alternatively, the base end portion 12 could be formed witha single layer 28 of fabric with two separate layers of foam adhered toopposite sides of the single layer of fabric. Thus, a layer of foamcould be adhered to the outer side surface 26 of the layer 28 of fabricthroughout the extent of the base end portion 12 to provide a layer offoam which is separate from and on the opposite side of the strap fromthe layer 34 of foam.

Although a preferred construction for the strap 10 has been illustratedin FIGS. 1 through 5, it is contemplated that the strap 10 may have adifferent construction if desired. For example, rather than being formedby separate layers of foam and fabric, the strap 10 may be formed from asingle layer of material. If desired, with such a construction, aseparate base end portion 12 and retainer end portion 14 may beconnected to the single layer of material. Alternatively, the strap 10could be formed of multiple layers of fabric and/or multiple layers offoam. Although it is preferred to form the strap 10 with the layer 34being an open celled urethane foam, the layer 34 could be formed of asubstantially different material if desired.

The illustrated strap 10 has an outer side surface 26 which isslipperier than the inner side surface 32. This is because the outerside surface 26 is formed of a woven polymeric material while the innerside surface 32 is formed of a polymeric foam. It is contemplated thatboth the outer side surface 26 and the inner side surface 32 could beformed of one or more materials having substantially the same degree ofroughness or gripping action.

In the illustrated embodiment of the strap 10, the only foam which isexposed on the outer side 20 of the strap 10 is on the base end portion12 of the strap. It is contemplated that foam could be exposed at otherlocations on the outer side 20 of the strap 10. For example, arectangular section of foam could be disposed on the outer side 20 ofthe strap 10 at a location midway between the base end portion 12 andthe retainer end portion 14. This additional section of foam could besecured to the outer side 20 of the strap 10 by heat staking or bybonding directly to the outer side surface 26 of the layer 28 of fabric.

Use of Strap

The strap 10 of FIGS. 1-5 may be used in many different ways inassociation with many different portions of a patient's body. The strap10 may be utilized to apply only compressive forces to tissue in thepatient's body. Alternatively, the strap 10 may be used to provide acombination of compressive and tension forces in tissue in the patient'sbody. The combination of compressive and tension forces is particularlyadvantageous when it is desired to effect movement of superficial and/ordeep fascia relative to other tissue in a patient's body. Thecombination of compressive and tension forces applied by a strap 10 canbe utilized to effect shifting movement of one bone in a patient's bodyrelative to another bone.

It is contemplated that the strap 10 may be utilized in many differenttypes of patient treatments. It is believed that the strap 10 may beused during active, causal, expectant, palliative, preventive,supportive, and/or symptomatic treatments of a patient. For example, thestrap 10 may be used to apply force to body tissue to alter the actionof muscles and/or to change the relationship between adjacent bodytissues at many different locations in a patient's body.

When the strap 10 is wound in a circular loop around a portion of apatient's body, the strap 10 may be utilized to provide a purecompressive force against tissue of the patient's body. However, whenthe strap 10 is wound in a spiral around a portion of the patient'sbody, the strap 10 exerts both compressive and tension forces againsttissue of the patient's body. The magnitude of the compressive andtension forces may be varied by varying the tension in the strap 10.Thus, one turn of a spiral wrapping of the strap 10 around a portion ofa patient's body may be formed with a first tension in the strap and asecond turn of the spiral wrapping may be formed with a tension which isgreater than the first tension to increase shear forces applied to bodytissue.

When the strap 10 (FIG. 6) is to be wrapped around a patient's body insuch a manner as to provide both tension and compressive forces ontissue of the patient's body, the strap 10 is oriented with the layer 34of foam facing toward skin 60 on a portion 62 (FIG. 6) of the patient'sbody. The layer 28 of fabric faces outward away from the skin 60.

When the strap 10 is to be wrapped around the portion 62 of thepatient's body, the base end portion 12 is positioned in engagement withthe skin 60 of the patient. The upper layer 48 of the base end portion12 faces away from the skin 60 (FIG. 6) on the portion 62 of thepatient's body. Similarly, the lower layer 50 (FIG. 5) of the base endportion 12 is positioned in engagement with the skin 60 (FIG. 6) on theportion 62 of the patient's body. The inner surface 32 on the layer 34of foam grips the skin 60 on the patient's body to retain the base endportion 12 against undesired movement relative to the patient's body.The base end portion 12 may be positioned in engagement with thepatient's body by the patient or by medical personnel.

Regardless of whether the strap 10 is being positioned by the patient oranother person, the base end portion 12 of the strap is manually pressedagainst the skin 60 to position the base end portion 12 of the straprelative to the portion 62 of the patient's body. The main portion 16 ofthe strap 10 is then wrapped in a loop around the patient's body, in themanner illustrated schematically in FIG. 6. As the main portion 16 ofthe strap 10 is wrapped in a loop around the patient's body, the layer28 of fabric faces outward while the layer 34 of foam faces inward. Thisresults in the layer 34 of foam being moved into engagement with thefoam on the upper layer 48 of the base end section 12 (FIG. 7).

As the main portion 16 of the strap 10 moves into engagement with thebase end portion 12 of the strap, the main portion 16 is tensioned andthe base end portion 12 is pressed against the skin 60 of the patient.As the lower layer (FIG. 5) of the base end portion 12 is pressedagainst the skin 60 of the patient, the layer 34 of foam grips the skin60 of the patient. As the layer 34 of foam on the main portion 16 of thestrap 10 is pressed against the upper layer 48 of the base end portion,the layer 34 of foam on the main portion 16 of the strap 10 engages andfirmly grips the layer 34 of foam on the upper layer 48 of the base endportion 12.

There is a relatively large coefficient of static friction between theinner side surface 32 (FIG. 3) of the layer 34 of foam on the mainportion 16 of the strap 10 and the surface of the foam on the upperlayer 48 (FIG. 5) of the base end portion 12 of the strap. Thisrelatively large coefficient of static friction results in the mainportion 16 of the strap 10 and the base end portion 12 of the strapbeing securely interconnected by a friction connection.

As the main portion 16 of the strap 10 is wrapped in loops around theportion 62 of the patient's body, the base end portion 12 of the strap10 is pressed firmly against the skin of the patient. There is arelatively large coefficient of static friction between the inner sidesurface 32 on the layer 50 (FIG. 5) of the base end portion 12 and theskin 60 of the patient. This results in the base end portion 12 of thestrap 10 being securely gripped between the portion 62 (FIG. 7) of thebody of the patient and the main portion 16 of the strap 10. Thisresults in the base end portion 12 being anchored against movementrelative to the skin 60.

The friction connection established between the foam on the inside ofthe main portion 16 of the strap 10 and the foam on the outside of thebase end portion 12 of the strap forms the first turn of the strap intoa loop around the portion 62 of the patient. By tensioning the mainportion 16 of the strap 10, the loop can be pulled toward the right, asviewed in FIG. 7. Pulling the loop around the portion 62 of thepatient's body applies tension forces to the skin 62 of the patient.These tension forces are transmitted to body tissue beneath the skin ofthe patient. The rightward (as viewed in FIG. 7) tension forces applyshear stress to superficial fascia and to deep fascia in the body of thepatient. The tension forces may be transmitted to fascia associated withmuscles of the patient, that is myofascia.

As the main portion 16 of the strap 10 is wrapped across the base endportion 12 of the strap, the main portion of the strap is pulled towardthe right (as viewed in FIG. 7). This results in the application of acombination of shear and compressive forces to the skin 60 andsuperficial fascia immediately beneath the skin 60. The application ofshear forces to fatty tissue beneath the skin 60 can result in rupturingof fat globules and subsequent dissipation of the fat.

During a second turn or winding of the main portion 16 of the strap 10around the portion 62 of the patient's body in a second loop, the strapcontinues to be pulled toward the right (as viewed in FIG. 7) with anincreased force. Increased tension forces in the second loop have shearcomponents extending along the axis about which the strap 10 is wound,that is, about the longitudinal central axis of the portion 62 of thepatient's body. This results in the application of sidewise shear forcesto deep fascia in the patient's body, such as myofascia. The sidewiseshear forces applied to the deep fascia in the patient's body areeffective to pull the deep fascia toward the right (as viewed in FIG.7). As each successive turn of the strap 10 is wrapped around theportion 62 of the patient's body to form another loop, the force withwhich the strap is tensioned may be increased.

Increasing the tension forces in the strap 10 as the strap is woundaround the portion 62 of the patient's body increases both thecompressive force applied against the portion 62 of the patient's bodyand the shear forces applied to tissue beneath the skin 60 of thepatient's body by the loops in the strap. The tension forces resultingfrom pulling the strap 10 have axial components. These axial componentscause a shifting of the skin 60 of the patient toward the right (asviewed in FIGS. 7 and 8) and a shifting of both superficial fascia anddeep fascia toward the right.

As the strap 10 is wrapped around the portion 62 of the patient's body,tension force, indicated by an arrow in FIG. 7, is transmitted from aloop being formed in the strap to previously formed loops in the strap.Thus, each of the loops formed in the strap 10, after the first loop, iseffective to transmit force to an adjacent loop in the strap. Thetransmission of force between the loops of the strap has a compoundingeffect to increase the force transmitted to superficial fascia and deepfascia in the portion 62 of the patient as the strap 10 is wrappedaround the portion 62 of the patient.

The extent of shifting movement of the deep fascia and/or other bodytissue can be controlled by controlling the tension applied to the strap10. Thus, the greater the shear or axially directed force which is to beapplied to the deep fascia, the greater is the tension which is appliedto the strap 10 as the strap is wound around the portion 62 of thepatient's body. There is a relatively high coefficient of frictionbetween the inner side surface 32 of the layer 34 of foam (FIG. 3) andthe skin 60 (FIGS. 7 and 8) on the portion 62 of the patient's body.Therefore, substantial forces directed in an axial direction along theportion 60 of the patient's body can be applied by the strap 10 duringwinding and tensioning of the strap.

When the strap 10 has been fully wrapped in a series of loops around theportion 62 of the patient's body, the retainer end portion 14 of thestrap is connected with the main portion 16 of the strap. To effect thisinterconnection, the retainer 38 (FIG. 4) on the retainer end portion 14of the strap is pressed firmly against the layer 28 of fabric on themain portion 16 of the strap. As this occurs, the hooks 42 (FIG. 4) onthe retainer 38 engage the loops of the layer 28 of fabric against whichthe retainer end portion 14 of the strap is pressed (FIG. 8). Thisresults in the retainer end portion 14 of the strap 10 being connectedto the main portion 16 of the strap to hold the strap against movementrelative to the portion 62 of the patient's body.

Although only three turns of the strap 10 have been illustrated in FIG.8 as being looped around the portion 62 of the patient's body, a greateror lesser number of could be wound around the patient's body. Of course,if additional turns of the strap 10 are to be wound around the portion60 of the patient's body, the length of the strap 10 would be increased.Similarly, if fewer turns were to be wound around the portion 62 of thepatient's body, the length of the strap would be decreased.

The strap 10 may be wrapped around a patient's forearm, in the mannerillustrated in FIGS. 6-8, when the strap is being used in the treatmentof tennis elbow or a similar disorder. Of course, the strap 10 may bewrapped around a patient's leg, in the manner illustrated in FIGS. 6-8,when the strap is being used in the treatment of a disorder associatedwith the patient's leg. Although the strap 10 is illustrated in FIGS.6-8 as being wrapped around only one portion 62 of the patient's body,the strap could be wrapped around a plurality of portions of a patient'sbody if desired. This could be done in many different ways including atechnique similar to the technique used in forming a buddy bandagebetween two portions of a patient's body.

In FIG. 8, the strap 10 is wound in a series of overlapping loops.However, it is contemplated that space could be provided between atleast some of the loops. For example, after the first loop has beenformed in the manner illustrated in FIG. 7, a next succeeding loop couldbe formed by winding the strap 10 around a portion of the patient's bodywhich is spaced from the portion engaged by the first loop.

It is contemplated that modalities could be held in position relative toa patient's body by the strap 10. For example, magnets could be securedto the layer 28 of fabric by “Velcro” (trademark) hook type fasteners orcould be positioned between the layer 34 of foam and the patient's body.The strap 10 could be utilized to position electrical stimulus ormonitors relative to the patient's body. If desired, the strap 10 couldbe used to position ice packs relative to the patient's body.

It is contemplated that the device for use in treatment of portions of apatient's body may be held in place by the use of one or more strapshaving the same construction as the strap 10. These devices may beutilized for many different purposes including the straightening orcorrection of a deformity or disability. A device positioned by a straphaving the same construction as the strap 10, may be used for thefixation, union or protection of a portion of a patient's body. Thedevice positioned by a strap 10 may be used to correct malalignment ofjoints, bones, or other portions of a patient's body. Although the strap10 may be used to position many different devices relative to apatient's body, some devices which may be positioned by the strap 10 mayhave a construction similar to the construction of the devicesillustrated in U.S. Pat. Nos. 433,227; 3,698,389; 4,441,489; 4,848,326;5,685,830; and 5,848,979.

It is also contemplated that one or more straps, having the sameconstruction as the strap 10, may be utilized to position a portion of apatient's body relative to a portion of a device spaced from a patient'sbody. For example, a strap having a construction similar to theconstruction of the strap 10 could be utilized to position a portion ofa patient's body relative to an imaging apparatus, such as a magneticresonance imaging unit (MRI). The strap 10 could be utilized inassociation with an apparatus similar to the apparatus disclosed in U.S.Pat. No. 5,577,503.

Use of Strap—FIGS. 9-11

In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 6-8, the strap10 has been wound around a generally cylindrical portion of a patient'sbody, such as around a patient's forearm or the lower portion of apatient's leg. In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS.9-11, the strap is wrapped around the patient's hand and the region ofthe patient's body where the patient's wrist and hand areinterconnected. Since the embodiment of the invention illustrated inFIGS. 9 and 10 is generally similar to the embodiment of the inventionillustrated in FIGS. 1-8, similar numerals will be utilized to identifysimilar components, the suffix letter “a” being added to the numerals ofFIGS. 9 and 10 to avoid confusion.

When a strap 10 a is to be wound around a hand 70 of a patient, a baseend portion 12 a (FIG. 9) of the strap 10 a is positioned in engagementwith the back 74 of the hand. The main portion 16 a of the strap 10 a ispositioned between the first finger 78 (FIG. 10), that is, the thumb,and the second finger 80, that is, the forefinger. As the strap 10 a iswrapped around the hand 70, the layer 34 a of foam on the main section16 a of the strap engages the back 74 of the hand 70 and is positionedin engagement with the palm of the hand.

As the strap 10 a is tensioned, the layer 34 a of foam on the mainportion 16 a of the main portion of the strap is positioned inengagement with an exposed layer 6 f foam on the base end portion 12 aof the strap. There is a relatively large coefficient of static frictionbetween the layer 34 a of foam on the main portion 16 a of the strap andthe exposed layer of foam on the outer side of the base end portion 12 aof the strap. There is also a large coefficient of static frictionbetween the layer 34 a of foam on the inner side of the base end portion12 a of the strap 10 a and the skin on the hand 70 of the patient. Theselarge coefficients of static friction result in the base end portion 12a of the strap being secured between the back 74 of the patient's hand70 and the main portion 16 a of the strap 10 a.

As the strap 10 a is wrapped in a loop around the patient's hand, in themanner indicated schematically by an arrow in FIG. 10, the strap istensioned to firmly press the base end portion 12 a of the strap 10 aagainst the back 74 of the patient's hand 70. The strap 10 a is pulledinto engagement with the patient's wrist and is wrapped in a pluralityof loops around a region 84 (FIG. 11) where the patient's hand, wrist,and forearm are interconnected. This force results in bones and/or othertissue in the patient's hand 70 being held in a desired relationship. Inaddition, shear forces are transmitted to myofascial tissue disposedadjacent to the strap 10 a.

A retainer end portion 14 a of the strap 10 a is pressed against thelayer 28 a of fabric on the main portion 16 a of the strap 10 a. Theretainer section 14 a has a hook-type retainer, corresponding to theretainer 38 of FIG. 4, which securely anchors the retainer end portion14 a of the strap 10 a against movement relative to the main portion 16a of the strap. By tensioning the strap 10 a as it is wrapped around theregion 84 where the hand, wrist, and forearm are interconnected in thewrist is held in extension.

The connection between the retainer section 14 a and the loop in thestrap 10 a results in tension forces, indicated by an arrow in FIG. 11,being maintained. These tension forces are transmitted to myofascialtissue and bones in the hand, wrist and forearm of the patient.

In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 9-11, the baseend portion 12 a of the strap 10 a has been positioned in engagementwith the back 74 of the patient's hand 70. However, it is contemplatedthat the base end portion 12 a of the strap could be located in adifferent position relative to the hand 70 if desired. For example, thebase end portion 12 a could be positioned in engagement with the palm ofthe hand 70.

Use of Strap—FIGS. 12-14

In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 9-11, the strap10 a is wrapped around the hand 70 and region 84 where the hand andwrist are interconnected. In the embodiment of the invention illustratedin FIGS. 12-14, the strap is wrapped around the first finger (thumb) andthen wrapped around the region where the hand and wrist areinterconnected. Since the embodiment of the invention illustrated inFIGS. 12-14 is generally similar to the embodiments of the inventionillustrated in FIGS. 1-11, similar numerals will be utilized todesignate similar components, the suffix letter “b” being added to thenumerals of FIGS. 12-14 to avoid confusion.

A strap 10 b is positioned relative to a patient's hand 70 b (FIG. 12)with a base end portion 12 b of the strap 10 b disposed in a region 84 bwhere the hand and wrist of the patient are interconnected. The layer 34b of foam on the inside of the base end portion 12 b and main portion 16b of the strap 10 b engages the skin on the hand 70 b of the patient.Once the base end portion 12 b of the strap 10 b has been positionedagainst the back of the patient's hand, the strap 10 b is pulled intothe area between the first finger (thumb) 78 b and second finger (forefinger) 80 b on the hand of the patient (FIG. 12).

The main portion 16 b of the strap 10 b is then wrapped in a pluralityof loops around the first finger (thumb) 78 b (FIG. 13). As the firstfinger 78 b is wrapped, the main portion 16 b of the strap is tensionedand the layer 34 b of foam is pressed firmly against the fabric layer 28b on the main portion of the strap 10 b. Tension forces, indicatedschematically by an arrow in FIG. 13, are transmitted to bones in thefirst finger 78 b and to tissue connected with the first finger.

The strap 10 b is then pulled downward and across the base end portion12 b. This results in the layer 34 b of foam on the main portion 16 b ofthe strap 10 b being pressed against the exposed foam layer on the baseend portion 12 b of the strap (FIG. 14). There is a relatively largecoefficient of static friction between the foam layer 34 b on the mainportion 16 b of the strap 10 b and the foam on the outside of the baseend portion 12 b of the strap 10 b. There is also a relatively largecoefficient of static friction between the foam layer 34 b on the insideof the base end portion 12 b and the skin on the back of the patient'shand 70 b. This results in the base end portion 12 b being securely heldagainst movement relative to the hand 70 b of the patient by engagementof the main portion 16 b of the strap with the base end portion.

The strap 10 b is then wrapped for a plurality of turns around theregion 84 b where the wrist, hand, and forearm of the patient areinterconnected. A retainer end portion (not shown) having the samestructure as the retainer end portion 14 of FIGS. 2 and 4 is thenpressed against the fabric layer 28 b on the main portion 16 b of thestrap 10 b to anchor the retainer end portion. The retainer portionmaintains tension force, indicated by an arrow in FIG. 14, in the strap10 b.

Although the strap 10 b has been illustrated in FIGS. 12-14 as beingwrapped around the first finger (thumb) 78 b on the hand 70 b, it iscontemplated that the strap could be wrapped around a different fingerif desired. Although the base end portion 12 b of the strap 10 b hasbeen shown disposed adjacent to the back of the hand 70 b of thepatient, the base end portion 12 b of the strap 10 b could be positionedadjacent to the palm of the hand 70 b if desired.

Use of Strap—FIGS. 15-17

In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 9-14, the strapis utilized in association with a hand of a patient. In the embodimentof the invention illustrated in FIGS. 15-17, the strap is utilized inassociation with a knee of the patient. Since the embodiment of theinvention illustrated in FIGS. 15-17 is generally similar to theembodiments of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 1-14, similar numeralswill be utilized to designate similar components, the suffix letter “c”being added to the numerals of FIGS. 15-17 to avoid confusion.

The patella or kneecap of a patient may tend to shift toward the outsideof the knee of the patient. By applying force against the patella with astrap 10 c, the patella can be moved medially inward from a laterallydisplaced position. It should be understood that the strap 10 c could beutilized to move a patella back into alignment with a knee from adifferent position if desired. Thus, the strap 10 c may be utilized todisplace the patella back into a desired position. This may beaccomplished by using the strap to pull the patella and deepertissue—myofascial structures.

When the strap 10 c is to be utilized to move a patella or kneecap on aright leg 88 of a patient from a laterally displaced position, a baseend portion 12 c of the strap 10 c is positioned laterally or outward ofthe center of the right patella or kneecap (FIG. 15). The main portion16 c is pulled medially or inward across the top of the patella orkneecap in the manner illustrated schematically in FIG. 15.

As the strap 10 b is wrapped around the right leg 88 of the patient, thelayer 34 c of foam on the main portion 16 c of the strap 10 c ispositioned in engagement with skin 60 c on a right leg of the patient.The main portion 16 c of the strap 10 c extends upward across theanterior side of the patient's leg 88 at a location immediately abovethe patella. When the strap reaches the center of the medial side of theleg, at a location above the patella, the strap is pulled laterallydownward across the posterior side of the leg (FIGS. 15 and 16).

As the main portion 16 c of the strap 10 c is pulled downward across theoutside of the knee in the manner illustrated in FIG. 16, the foam layer34 c on the strap engages the base end portion 12 c of the strap topress the base end portion firmly against the skin 60 c of the patient.The relatively large coefficient of static friction between the foam onthe outside of the base end portion 12 c of the strap 10 c and the foamon the inside of the main portion 16 c of the strap results in a secureconnection between the base end portion and main portion of the strap.The relatively large coefficient of static friction between the foam onthe inside of the base end portion 12 c of the strap 10 c and the skinon the leg of the patient results in a secure connection between thebase end portion of the strap and the leg of the patient.

The resulting loop encircles the leg 88 of the patient immediately abovethe kneecap. As the strap 10 c is pulled downward and leftward, asviewed in FIG. 16, force is applied to both the upper and lower portionsof the kneecap (patella) by the strap. The resulting force componentpushes the right kneecap inward toward the left kneecap.

The patella or kneecap is centered in a triangular space 92 formed by anintersection 94 (FIG. 16) between the main portion 16 c of the strap 10c extending medially upward across an upper portion of the patella and asection of the main portion 16 c of the strap 10 c which extendsmedially downward and across a lower portion of the patella. Thesetension forces, indicated by an arrow in FIG. 16, are transmitted tobody tissue disposed beneath the strap 10 c. As the main portion 16 c ofthe strap 10 c is pulled downward and medially inward across the lowerportion of the patella (FIG. 16), the main portion 16 c of the strap istensioned downward and forward relative to the knee of the patient. Thisresults in the sections of the main portion 16 c of the strap 10 c,which form the triangular space 92, pressing against the patella to urgethe patella medially inward from a laterally displaced position.

The manner in which force is applied against the patella by the strap 10c is illustrated schematically in FIG. 17 in association with a knee ofa patient. The patella or knee cap is illustrated schematically in FIG.17 and is designated by the numeral 95. It should be understood thatFIG. 17 is a schematic frontal view of the patient's knee and thepatella 95 has been illustrated in solid lines even though the patellais covered by skin and other body tissue.

The upper loop of the strap 10 c has been designated by the numeral 96in FIG. 17. The upper loop 96 of the strap 10 c applies a downward forcecomponent 97 and a right ward (as viewed in FIG. 17) force component 98to the patella 95. Similarly, the lower loop of the strap 10 c has beendesignated by the numeral 99 in FIG. 17. The lower loop 99 of the strap10 c applies an upward force component 100 and a rightward (as viewed inFIG. 17) force component 101 to the patella 95.

The downward and upward force components 97 and 100 are substantiallyequal and cancel each other. The rightward force components 98 and 101applied against the patella 95 result in a relatively large force 103which moves the patella 95 toward the right (as viewed in FIG. 17). Thisresults in body tissues around the patella 95 being tensioned under theinfluence of the force components 98 and 101 transmitted from the strap10 c.

The patella 95 is moved into alignment with the other bones in the leg88 of the patient by the force applied against the patella by the strap10 c. The main portion 16 c of the strap 10 c is then pulled to thecenter of the inner side of the leg of the patient. The main portion 16c of the strap is then pulled upward and across the anterior portion ofthe leg 88 of the patient to form a pair of loops, that is, the upperloop 96 which extends around the leg and is disposed above the patella95 and a lower loop which extends around the leg and is disposed belowthe patella. Force transmitted from the intersection 94 between the twoloops formed by the main portion 16 c of the strap 10 c forces thepatella toward the left on the leg of the patient and into alignmentwith the knee of the patient.

The retainer end portion 14 c of the strap 16 c is then connected withthe main portion 16 c of the strap at a location below the patella (FIG.18). Rather than being connected with the downwardly extending sectionof the main portion 16 c of the strap 10 c, as shown in FIG. 18, theretainer end portion 14 c could be connected with the section of themain portion 16 c of the strap 10 c which extends upward across theupper side of the patella.

Use of Strap—FIG. 19

In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 9-14 the strapis utilized in association with a patient's hand. In the embodiment ofthe invention illustrated in FIGS. 15-18 the strap is utilized inassociation with a patient's knee. In the embodiment of the inventionillustrated in FIG. 19, the strap is utilized in association with thearms and shoulders of a patient. Since the embodiment of the inventionillustrated in FIG. 19 is generally similar to the embodiment of theinvention illustrated in FIGS. 1-18, similar numerals will be utilizedto identify similar components, the suffix letter “d” being added to thenumerals of FIG. 18 to avoid confusion.

A strap 10 d has base end portion 12 d, a main portion 16 d and aretainer end portion 14 d. The strap 10 d is wrapped around the upperportion of right and left arms 102 and 104 and the trunk 106 of apatient. The strap 10 d applies force against the upper portion of thearms 102 and 104. The strap 10 d applies pressure against muscles andother body tissue connected with the shoulders of the patient. The strap10 d is effective to retard and increase proprioception of upwardrotational movement of the arms 102 and 104.

When the strap 10 d is to be positioned relative to the patient, thebase end portion 12 d of the strap is positioned against the upperportion of the left arm 104 (FIG. 19). The main portion 16 d of thestrap 10 d is then tensioned across the back of the patient. The layerof foam on the main portion 16 d of the strap, that is, the layercorresponding to the layer 34 of foam in FIG. 3, engages the skin on theback of the patient. The layer of fabric, that is the fabric layercorresponding to the layer 28 of FIG. 3, faces away from the skin of thepatient.

While the base end portion 12 d is held against movement, the mainportion 16 d of the strap 10 d is tensioned and the strap positionedacross the chest of the patient. The layer of foam on the main portion16 d of the strap is then moved into engagement with the upper layer ofthe base end portion 12 d. The layer of foam on the section 16 d of thestrap engages the exposed foam on the base end portion 12 d of the strapand is effective to anchor the base end portion 12 d of the strapagainst movement. The retainer end portion 14 d of the strap is thenconnected with the fabric layer on the main portion 16 d of the strap.

Engagement of the layer of foam on the main portion 16 d of the strap 10d with skin on the back and chest of the patient increases patientawareness of use of muscles and related tissue connected with the upperportions of the arms 102 and 104 of the patient. The increased patientproprioception facilitates treatment of upper arm and shoulderdisorders. In addition, the strap 10 d makes it easier for a patient tovoluntarily limit the range of upper arm movement.

Use of Strap—FIG. 20

In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 1-19, the baseend portion 12 of the strap 10 is positioned in engagement with skin ona portion of a patient's body and a layer of foam on the inside of thestrap is positioned in engagement with foam on the outside of the baseend portion. In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIG. 20,the base end portion of the strap is a preformed loop with foam on theinside. Since the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIG. 20 isgenerally similar to the embodiments of the invention illustrated inFIGS. 1-19, similar numerals will be utilized to identify similarcomponents, the suffix letter “e” being added to the numerals of FIG. 19to avoid confusion.

A strap 10 e is utilized in association with a hand 70 e of a patient.The strap 10 e has a base end portion 12 e, a main portion 16 e, and aretainer end portion (not shown) corresponding to the retainer endportion 14 of FIGS. 2 and 4. The main portion 16 e of the strap 10 eincludes a layer 28 e of fabric and a layer 34 e of foam. The mainportion 16 e of the strap 10 e has the same construction as the mainportion 16 of the strap 10 of FIGS. 1-5. As was previously mentioned,the retainer end portion of the strap 10 e has the same construction asthe retainer end portion 14 of the strap 10 of FIGS. 1-5.

The strap 10 e differs from the strap 10 of FIGS. 1-5 in that the baseend portion 12 e is a preformed loop 114 which is positioned around thefirst finger (thumb) 78 e on the hand 70 e of the patient. The inside ofthe loop 114 is completely lined by the layer 34 e of foam. The outsideof the loop 114 is formed by the layer 28 e of fabric.

The loop 114 is formed by folding the end of the strap back on itselfand heart staking the end of the strap to the main portion of the strapwhen a loop 114 of a desired diameter has been formed. This results inthe inside of the loop being completely lined by the foam layer 34 e.The outside of the loop is formed by the fabric layer 28 e. The loop 114is connected to the main portion 16 e of the strap 10 e where the loopis heat staked to the strap.

The size of the loop 114 will vary depending upon the finger on the hand70 of the patient with which the loop is to be associated. Thus, if theloop is to be associated with the fifth finger (little finger) the loopwould have a relatively small diameter. Similarly, if the strap 10 e isto be utilized with a person having a relatively small hand, the loop114 would be relatively small. However, if the loop 114 is to beassociated with a relatively large muscular hand, the loop would berelatively large. It should be understood that it is contemplated thatthe strap 10 e will be associated with any one of the fingers on handsof different sizes.

Once the loop 114 formed by the base end portion 12 e of the strap 10 ehas been positioned around the first finger 78 e on the hand 70 e, thestrap is wrapped around the first finger. As the main portion 16 e ofthe strap 10 e is wrapped around the first finger 78 e, the foam layer34 e is pressed against the fabric layer 28 e on the outside of the loop114. The main portion 16 e of the strap 10 e is then wrapped around theregion where the patient's hand and wrist are interconnected.

When the strap 10 e is used, the loop 114 is placed around the firstfinger 78 e. The main portion 16 e of the strap 10 e is tensioned andthe strap is wrapped in a clockwise direction (as viewed in FIG. 20)around the first finger 78 e. As this occurs, the layer 34 e of foam onthe main portion 16 e of the strap 10 e is pressed against the layer 28e of fabric on the outside of the loop 114.

After the strap 10 e has been wrapped for more than one completerevolution about the first finger 78 e, the strap is moved along theback of the thumb and across a portion of the back of the hand where thethumb is joined with the hand, to a region where the wrist and hand ofthe patient are interconnected. The strap is then wrapped for aplurality of turns in a clockwise direction about the wrist of thepatient. The retainer end portion of the strap then engages the fabriclayer 28 e to secure the strap in the manner previously explained inconjunction with the embodiment of the strap illustrated in FIGS. 1-5.

In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIG. 20, the strap 10e is provided with a preformed loop 114 for engagement with a finger 78e on a hand 70 e of a patient. However, it is contemplated that the loopcould be preformed for engagement with another portion of a patient'sbody. For example, the size of the loop 114 could be increased so thatthe loop could be utilized to engage an upper portion of an arm of apatient. Alternatively, the loop could be sized so as to engage aportion of a leg of a patient. If desired, the loop 114 could be sizedso as to engage a toe on a foot of a patient. Although only a singleloop 114 has been illustrated in FIG. 20, a plurality of loops could beformed in the strap 10 e if desired.

Use of Strap—FIG. 21

In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 1-5, the strap10 is provided with a base end portion 12 and a retainer end portion 14.In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIG. 21, a pluralityof straps which have the same construction throughout their length areutilized to apply force against shoulders of a patient. Since theembodiment of the invention illustrated in FIG. 20 is generally similarto the embodiments of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 1-20, similarnumerals will be utilized to designate similar components, the suffixletter “f” being added to the numerals of FIG. 21 to avoid confusion.

The straps 10 f and 120 are utilized to apply force against shoulders122 and 124 of a patient. The straps 10 f and 120 extend across theshoulders 122 and 124 of the patient and down posterior and anteriorsides of a trunk 128 of the patient. Although the portions of the straps10 f and 120 disposed on the anterior side of the patient's trunk areillustrated in FIG. 21, it should be understood that the straps extendstraight down the posterior side of the trunk 128 of the patient.Therefore, the portion of the straps which extend down the posteriorside of the patient's trunk 128 extend generally parallel to and arealigned with the portions of the straps which extend down the anteriorside of the patient's trunk. The straps 10 f and/or 120 may be utilizedin the treatment of a fractured clavicle or other bone in the shoulderof the patient.

The strap 10 f has a uniform construction throughout its length. Thestrap 10 f has the same construction as the main portion 16 of the strap10 of FIGS. 1-3. Thus, the strap 10 f includes an outer fabric layer 28f and an inner foam layer, corresponding to the foam layer 34 of FIG. 3.The inner foam layer of the strap 10 f is disposed in engagement withskin on the trunk 128 of the patient.

Due to a gripping action between the foam layer on the inside of thestrap 10 f and the skin 60 f on the trunk 128 of the patient, a tensionforce can be maintained in the strap 28 f This tension force iseffective to apply pressure against scapula muscles to relievemyofascial pain or other maladies. In addition, the strap is effectiveto increase the patient's proprioception of the shoulder 122. Increasedawareness of the shoulder 122 results from pulling of the strap 10 f onthe skin 60 f of the trunk 128 of the patient during movement of the armconnected with the shoulder. Opposite ends of the strap 10 f extend tothe patient's waist. This enables opposite ends of the strap 10 f to beheld in position on the patient's trunk 128 by clothing, such as a belt,worn by the patient.

The strap 10 f may be utilized by itself or in association with a secondstrap 120. The strap 120 has the same construction as the strap 10 f andis positioned in the same manner relative to the opposite shoulder 124.The strap 120 cooperates with the patient's shoulder 124 and trunk 128in the same manner as previously discussed in association with the strap10 f. It should be understood that either one of the two straps 10 f or120 may be utilized by itself without the other strap if desired.

Use of Strap—FIGS. 22 and 23

In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIG. 21, the twostraps 10 f and 120 are held in position relative to the trunk 128 ofthe patient by a gripping action between the layers of foam on theinside of the straps and the skin 60 f of the patient along withclothing worn by the patient. In the embodiment of the inventionillustrated in FIGS. 22 and 23, the straps over the shoulders of thepatient are held in position relative to the trunk of the patient by athird strap which extends around the trunk of the patient. Since theembodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 22 and 23 is generallysimilar to the embodiments of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 1-21,similar numerals will be utilized to designate similar components, thesuffix letter “g” being added to the numerals of FIGS. 22 and 23 toavoid confusion.

Straps 10 g and 120 g extend across opposite shoulders 122 g and 124 gof a patient. The straps extend down posterior and anterior sides of atrunk 128 g of the patient. The straps 10 g and 120 g apply force toscapula muscles and/or other tissue in the shoulders 122 g and 124 g ofthe patient. The straps 10 g and/or 120 g may be utilized in thetreatment of a fractured clavicle or other bone in a shoulder of thepatient.

The strap 10 g is provided with base end portions at opposite ends ofthe strap. Thus, the strap 10 g has a base end portion 12 g at the endof the strap 10 g disposed on the anterior side of the trunk 128 g ofthe patient. Similarly, the strap 10 g has a base end portion at the endof the strap on the posterior side of the trunk of the patient.

The base end portions at opposite ends of the strap 10 g have the sameconstruction as the base end portion 12 of FIGS. 1, 2 and 5. Thus, ananterior base end portion 12 g of the strap 10 g has a layer of foam,corresponding to the lower layer 50 of FIG. 5, which engages the skin 60g on the trunk of the patient. The end portion 12 g of the strap 10 ghas an outer layer, corresponding to the upper layer 48 of FIG. 5, whichfaces outward away from the skin 60 g on the anterior side of trunk 128g of the patient.

Although only the anterior side base end portion 12 g of the strap 10 gis illustrated in FIG. 22, it should be understood that there is asimilar base end portion at the end of the strap 12 g disposed on theposterior side of the trunk 10 g of the patient. The two base endportions both have the same construction as the base end portion 12 ofthe strap 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1-5. The strap 10 g does not have anend portion with a construction which corresponds to the construction ofthe retainer end portion 14 of the strap 10 of FIGS. 1-5.

The portion of the strap 10 g extending between the opposite base endportions, that is, between the anterior base end portion 12 g and thecorresponding posterior base end portion, has the same construction asthe main portion 16 of the strap 10 of the embodiment of the inventionillustrated in FIGS. 1-5. Thus, the strap 10 g has a layer of fabric 28g which extends for the entire length of the strap 10 g. A layer offoam, corresponding to the layer 34 of foam of FIG. 3, is disposed onthe side of the strap 10 g toward the skin 60 g of the patient. Thelayer of foam extends throughout the entire length of the strap 10 g.The layer of foam on the inside of the strap 10 g is effective to gripthe skin 60 g of the patient to hold the strap against movement relativeto the skin.

The strap 120 g has the same construction as the strap 10 g. Thus, thestrap 120 g has a pair of base end portions with-the same constructionas the base end portion 12 of the strap 10 of FIGS. 1-5. There is a baseend portion, with the same construction as the base end portion 12 ofFIG. 5, at the end of the strap 120 g disposed on the anterior side ofthe trunk 128 g of the patient. Similarly, there is a base end portionwith the same construction as the base end portion 12 of FIG. 5 at theend of the strap 120 g disposed on the posterior side of the trunk ofthe patient. The posterior and anterior base end portions of the straps10 g and 120 g are aligned with each other in a transverse planeextending through the trunk of the patient.

In accordance with a feature of the embodiment of the inventionillustrated in FIG. 22, a retaining strap 136 extends around the trunk128 of the patient. The retaining strap 136 holds the two straps 10 gand 120 g in desired positions relative to the trunk 128 g and shoulders122 g and 124 g of the patient. The retaining strap 136 has the sameconstruction as the strap 10 of FIGS. 1-5.

The retaining strap 136 has a base end portion with foam on oppositesides of the base end portion, in the same manner as illustrated in FIG.5. The retaining strap 136 has a retainer end portion with a retainerhaving the same construction as the retainer 38 of FIG. 4. The retainerend portion of the strap 136 has the same construction as the retainerend portion 14 of the strap 10 of FIG. 4. A main portion extends betweenthe base end portion and retainer end portion of the retaining strap 136of FIG. 22. The main portion of the retaining strap 136 has the sameconstruction as the main portion 16 of the strap 10 of FIGS. 1-5.

When the straps 10 g, 120 g and 136 are to be utilized to treat apatient, the straps 10 g and 120 g are first positioned across theshoulders 122 g and 124 g and down the posterior and anterior sides ofthe trunk 128 g. The retaining strap 136 is then positioned around thetrunk 128 g. The layer of foam on the main portion 16 of the retainingstrap 136 engages the posterior and anterior base end portions of thestrap 10 g and the posterior and anterior base end portions of the strap120 g. Engagement of the layer of foam on the inside of the retainingstrap 136 with the foam on the outside of the base end portions of thestraps 10 g and 120 g holds the base end portions of the straps againstmovement relative to the trunk 128 g of the patient.

When the retaining strap 136 is to be positioned around the trunk 128 gof the patient, the base end portion of the retaining strap 136 ispositioned on either the left or right side of the trunk adjacent toeither the left or right arm of the patient. The main portion of theretaining strap 136 is then wrapped around the trunk of the patient. Asthis is done, the layer of foam, corresponding to the layer 34 of foamon the main portion 16 of the strap 10 (FIGS. 1-3), is positioned inengagement with the anterior and posterior base end portions 12 g (FIG.22) of the strap 10 g. The layer of foam on the main portion of theretaining strap 136 is also positioned in engagement with the base endportions of the strap 120 g disposed on the anterior and posterior sidesof the trunk 128 g of the patient.

The layer of foam on the inside of the main portion of the retainingstrap 136 is then positioned in engagement with the layer of foam on theoutside of the base end portion of the retaining strap 136. The retainerend portion of the retaining strap 136 is connected with the layer offabric on the outside of the main portion of the retaining strap in thesame manner as previously explained in conjunction with the embodimentof the invention illustrated in FIGS. 1-5.

In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIG. 22, the retainingstrap 136 is positioned around the waist of the patient. However, it iscontemplated that the retaining strap 136 could be positioned at adifferent location relative to the trunk 128 g of the patient. Forexample, the retaining strap 136 could be positioned around the chest ofthe patient. If desired, a plurality of retaining straps, having thesame construction as the retaining strap 136, could be positioned at aplurality of locations around the trunk 128 g of the patient. Connectorstraps could be connected with and extend between the straps 10 g and120 g on the posterior and/or anterior sides of the trunk of thepatient. The relatively short connector straps could be used with orwithout the retaining strap 136.

The manner in which the retaining strap 136 cooperates with the strap120 g extending across the shoulder 124 g (FIG. 22) of the patient isillustrated in FIG. 23. The shoulder strap 120 g includes a main portion16 g having a layer 34 g of foam and a layer 28 g of fabric. The layer34 g of foam has an inner side surface 32 g which engages the skin 60 gof the patient.

The shoulder strap 120 g has an anterior base end portion 12 g (FIG.23). The base end portion 12 g of the strap 120 g includes a lower orinner layer 50 g and an upper or outer layer 48 g. The layers 48 g and50 g of the end portion 12 g of the shoulder strap 120 g are integrallyformed as one piece with the main portion 16 g of the shoulder strap.The layers 48 g and 50 g on the base end portion 12 g of the shoulderstrap 120 g are fixedly connected to each other by heat staking. Ofcourse, the layers 48 g and 50 g could be fixedly interconnected in adifferent manner if desired.

The retaining strap 136 has a main portion 16 g which extends across thebase end portion 12 g of the shoulder strap 120 g. The main portion 16 gof the retaining strap 136 includes a layer 28 g of fabric and a layer34 g of foam. The layer 34 g of foam on the main portion 16 g of theretaining strap 136 is disposed in engagement with the layer of foam onthe upper or outer layer 48 g of the base end portion 12 g of theshoulder strap 120 g. The gripping action between the layers of foam onthe base end portion 12 g of the shoulder strap 120 g and the mainportion 16 g of the retaining strap 136 is effective to interconnect thetwo straps and hold them against movement relative to each other.

In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 22 and 23, thebase end portion 12 g of the shoulder strap 120 g (FIG. 22) includes anupper or outer layer 48 g and a lower or inner layer 50 g having layersof fabric and foam which are integrally formed as one piece with thelayer 28 g of fabric and the layer 32 g of foam of the main portion 16 gof the strap 120 g. However, a layer of foam could be bonded directly onthe outer or upper side of the layer of fabric 28 g which extendsthrough the lower layer 50 g of the base end portion 12 g of theshoulder strap 120 g. This would result in the base end portion 12 g ofthe shoulder strap having only a single layer of fabric rather than thetwo layers formed by doubling over the layer 28 g of fabric.

In the embodiment of the strap 120 g illustrated in FIGS. 22 and 23, theshoulder strap 120 g ends at the retaining strap 136. However, ifdesired, the shoulder strap 120 g could extend downward past theretaining strap 136. If this was done, the shoulder strap 120 g wouldextend to the left (as viewed in FIG. 23) of the retaining strap 136.With such a construction, it is believed that it may be preferred tobonded a layer of foam directly on the layer 28 g of fabric of theshoulder strap 120 g for engagement by the retaining strap 136.Alternatively, a separate piece or segment of the strap material couldbe connected to the main portion 16 g of the shoulder strap 120 g byheat staking. This would result in a construction similar to thatillustrated in FIG. 23 with the exception of elimination of the bend 52g between the upper or outer layer 48 g and the lower or inner layer 50g and in continuation of the main portion 16 g of the strap 120 g to theleft (as viewed in FIG. 23) of the retaining strap 136.

Although two shoulder straps 10 g and 120 g have been illustrated inFIG. 22, a single shoulder strap could be utilized if desired. It shouldbe understood that a plurality of retaining straps 136 could be usedwith one or more shoulder straps if desired. When two shoulder straps 10g and 120 g are utilized, short connector straps may be extended betweenthe shoulder straps. Although it is believed that the retaining strap136 will be used with the connector straps, the connector straps may beused without the retaining straps.

Use of Strap Material—FIGS. 24 and 25

In the embodiments of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 1-23, thelayers of foam and fabric have been used as strap material. In theembodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 24 and 25, the layersof foam and fabric are utilized as a lining for an orthosis. Sincecomponents of the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 24and 25 are similar to components of the invention illustrated in FIGS.1-23, similar numerals will be utilized to designate similar components,the suffix letter “h” being associated with FIGS. 24 and 25.

An orthosis 142 is illustrated in FIG. 24. The orthosis 142 isillustrated schematically in association with an arm of a patient tomove an elbow joint disposed between the upper arm and forearm of thepatient. However, it should be understood that the orthosis 142 could beutilized in association with other portions of a body of a patient. Itis contemplated that the orthosis 142 will be utilized to effect astatic progressive stretching of viscoelastic tissue associated with ajoint in a body of a patient.

The orthosis 142 includes a cuff 144 which is attachable with an upperportion of an arm of a patient and a cuff 146 which is attachable with alower portion of an arm of a patient. The cuff 144 is slidable along acuff arm 148. Similarly, the cuff 146 is slidable along a cuff arm 150.

A tower 154 is connected with the cuff arms 148 and 150. A drivemechanism 156 is connected with the tower 154 and the cuff arms 148 and150. The drive mechanism 156 is manually operated. However, a motorcould be utilized to operate the drive mechanism 156 if desired.

During use of the orthosis 142, the drive mechanism 156 is operated tocause the cuff arms 148 and 150 to pivot about connections with thetower 154. As the cuff arms are pivoted relative to the tower 154, thecuffs 144 and 146 move along the cuff arms.

The construction and manner of use of the orthosis 142 is the same as isdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,453,075. The disclosure in theaforementioned U.S. Pat. No. 5,453,075 is hereby incorporated herein inits entirety by this reference thereto. The orthosis could have adifferent construction than the specific construction of the orthosis142. For example, the orthosis could have a construction similar to thatdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,685,830 or 5,848,979.

In accordance with a feature of the invention, the cuffs 144 and 146 ofthe orthosis are lined with the same material which forms the mainportion 16 of the strap 10. Thus, the cuff 146 has a lining 160. Thelining 160 includes a layer 28 h of fabric which is fixedly secured, forexample, by adhesive and/or heat staking, to the cuff 146. A layer 34 hof foam is provided on the inside of the lining 160. The layer 34 h offoam engages the skin on the patient's body. It should be understoodthat the layer 28 h of fabric and the layer 34 h of foam has the sameconstruction as the layer 28 of fabric and the layer 34 of foam of FIGS.1-5.

Use of Straps—FIGS. 26 and 27

In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 25 and 26, aplurality of straps are utilized to close an opening in a patient'sskin. Since the straps of the embodiment of the invention illustrated inFIGS. 26 and 27 have the same general construction as the straps of theembodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 1-23, similar numeralswill be utilized to designate similar components, the suffix letter “j”being associated with the numerals of FIGS. 26 and 27 to avoidconfusion.

An opening 170 (FIG. 26) is formed in the body of a patient. The openingextends through an outer surface 172 of the skin 60 j of the patientinto body tissue 174 disposed beneath the skin. The opening 170 may beformed by an incision, wound, or other cause.

In order to promote healing of body tissue, it is desirable to close theopening and press the body tissue 174 on opposite sides of the openingfirmly together. This is accomplished by utilizing a pair of straps 180and 182 (FIG. 27). The straps 180 and 182 are wrapped around a portionof the patient's body in which the opening 170 is disposed. The straps180 and 182 are disposed on opposite sides of the opening 170.

The straps 180 and 182 apply tension forces to the body tissue 174urging the body tissue on one side of the opening toward the body tissueon the other side of the opening. These tension forces are effective toclose the opening 170 in the manner illustrated schematically in FIG.27. An optional connector member 186 extends between the straps 180 and182 and cooperates with the straps to hold the opening 170 closed. Ifdesired, the connector member 186 could be eliminated and the opening170 held in the closed condition of FIG. 27 by only shear or tensionforces applied to the body tissue 174 by the straps 180 and 182.

The straps 180 and 182 have the same construction as the strap 10 ofFIGS. 1-5. Thus, the strap 180 has a base end portion corresponding tothe base end portion 12 of the strap 10, a main portion corresponding tothe main portion 16 of the strap 10, and a retainer end portioncorresponding to the retainer end portion 14 of the strap 10. Similarly,the strap 182 has a base end portion corresponding to the base endportion end portion 12 of the strap 10, a main portion corresponding tothe main portion 16 of the strap 10 and a retainer end portioncorresponding to the retainer end portion 14 of the strap 10. The twostraps 180 and 182 both have the same construction as the strap 10 andare positioned around a portion of a patient's body in the same manneras previously described in conjunction with the strap 10.

A layer 34 j of foam on a main portion 16 j of the strap 180 is disposedin engagement with the skin 60 j on one side, that is the left side asviewed in FIG. 27 of the opening 120. A second turn of the main portion16 j of the strap overlies a portion of the first turn of the strap. Thelayer of foam in the main portion of the second turn of the strap 34 jengages a layer 28 j of fabric in the first turn of the strap. Thesecond loop of the strap 180 is tensioned and pulled toward the right(as viewed in FIG. 27) to apply force to the skin 60 j.

The force applied to the skin 60 j has a radially inward or compressivecomponent and a tension component which extends parallel to the surfaceof the skin 60 j. The tension component of the force applied to the skin60 j by the second turn of the strap 180 pulls the skin and underlyingbody tissue 174 toward the right (as viewed in FIG. 27). This rightwardmovement of the body tissue 174 results in a partial closing of theopening 170.

The strap 182 has the same construction as the strap 180. However, thesecond turn or winding of the strap 182 applies a leftward (as viewed inFIG. 27) force component to the skin 60 j and body tissue 174. Thisleftward force component moves the skin 60 j and body tissue on theright side of the opening 174 toward the skin and body tissue on theopposite or left side of the opening. This results in the opening beingclosed in the manner illustrated schematically in FIG. 27.

When the opening 170 is closed by oppositely directed shear or tensionforces applied to the body tissue 174 by the straps 180 and 182, thebody tissue on opposite sides of the opening is pressed together.Pressing the body tissue 174 on opposite sides of the opening 170together promotes healing of the body tissue and permanent closing ofthe opening 170.

Although the straps 180 and 182 have been wrapped around the patient'sbody for only two complete turns, it is contemplated that the strapscould be wrapped around the body tissue for additional turns if desired.If this was done, the tension or shear forces applied to the body tissue174 tending to close the opening 170 would be increased. Of course, thewrapping of the straps 180 and 182 around the portion of the patient'sbody in which the opening 170 is formed would begin at a location spacedfurther from the opening to accommodate the additional turns of thestraps.

An optional connector member 186 is illustrated in FIG. 27 as extendingbetween the straps 180 and 182. The connector member 186 has the sameconstruction as the retainer 38 of FIG. 4. Thus, the connector member186 has a plurality of hooks which are engagable with the loop fabriclayers 34 j on the outside of the straps 180 and 182.

The connector member 186 can be utilized to apply forces to the straps180 and 182 urging them toward each other in order to further promoteclosing of the opening 170. Alternatively, the connector member 186 maymerely be pressed in place against the straps 180 and 182 after theopening 170 has been closed by the shear forces applied to the bodytissue 174 by the straps 180 and 182. This would result in the connectormember 186 being effective to prevent separation of the straps 180 and182 and subsequent reformation of the opening 170 after the opening hasbeen closed.

When the opening 170 is disposed on a portion of a patient's body whichis subjected to forces tending to re-establish the opening 170 duringnormal daily activities of the patient, it is believed that theconnector member 186 will be particularly advantageous. Of course, incertain situations at least, the connector member 186 may be eliminated.

Use of Strap—FIGS. 28 and 29

In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 28 and 29, thestrap is utilized to restrain movement of an arm of the patient. Sincethe embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 28 and 29 isgenerally similar to the embodiments of the invention illustrated inFIGS. 1-23, similar numerals will be utilized to designate similarcomponents, the suffix letter “k” being added to the numerals of FIGS.28 and 29 to avoid confusion.

A strap 10 k is wrapped around an arm 102 k and extends horizontallyacross posterior side of a trunk 128 k of a patient in the mannerillustrated schematically in FIG. 29. The strap 10 k extends beneath theaxilla between an arm 104 k and the trunk 128 k of the patient. Thestrap extends upward across the anterior side of the trunk 128 k of thepatient adjacent to the arm 104 k. The strap 10 k extends across theshoulder 124 k of the patient (FIGS. 28 and 29). The strap 10 k extendsdownward across the posterior side of the shoulder 124 k and trunk 128 kof the patient (FIG. 29) to a connection 200 with a portion of the strap10 k extending across the posterior side of the trunk 128 k of thepatient.

Tension in the strap 10 k urges the arm 102 k of the patient toward thetrunk 128 k of the patient and in a posterior direction. The strap 10 ktends to limit abduction of the right arm 102 k of the patient. Ofcourse, if the strap 10 k was wrapped around the upper portion of theleft arm 104 k of the patient and extended across the right shoulder 122k of the patient, abduction of the left arm 104 k would be limited. Thestrap 10 k may be utilized in the treatment of a fractured clavicle orother bone in the shoulder of the patient.

When the strap 10 k is connected with the right arm 102 k and extendsacross the left shoulder 124 k of the patient, in the manner illustratedin FIGS. 28 and 29, proprioception of the patient to movement of theright arm 102 k is increased. This is because the layer of foam on theportion of the strap 10 k extending across the posterior side of thetrunk 128 k and extending downward across the posterior side of the leftshoulder 124 k of the patient transmits force to the skin 60 k on theposterior side of the trunk 128 k of the patient. This force increasesthe patient's awareness of how the right arm 102 k is being moved.

The strap 10 k has the same construction as the strap 10 of FIGS. 1-5.Thus, the strap 10 k (FIGS. 28 and 29) has a base end portion,corresponding to the base end portion 12 of the strap 10, a main portion16 k corresponding to the main portion of the strap 10 and a retainerend portion 14 k corresponding to the retainer end portion 14 of thestrap 10. The retainer end portion 14 k of the strap 10 k is connectedwith the main portion 16 k of the strap 10 k at the intersection 200(FIG. 29) between the portion of the strap 10 k which extends across theposterior side of the trunk of the patient in a transverse plane and theportion of the strap 10 k which extends downward from the shoulder 124 kacross the posterior side of the trunk 128 k.

When the strap 10 k is to be connected with the patient in the mannerillustrated in FIGS. 28 and 29, the base end portion of the strap 10 k,corresponding to the base end portion 12 of the strap 10, is positionedin engagement with the front side of the upper arm of the patient at alocation indicated by the numeral 204 in FIG. 28. The layer of foam onthe inside of the main portion 16 k is positioned in engagement with theskin on the upper portion of the right arm of the patient. The strap 10k is then wrapped across the portion of the upper arm of the patientwhich is furthest from the trunk of the patient. The strap 10 k is thenis wrapped across the portion of the upper arm at the axilla between theright arm 102 k and the trunk 128 k of the patient.

The main portion 16 k of the strap 10 k is then pulled across the baseend portion of the strap 10 k at the location designated by the numeral204 in FIG. 28. This results in the foam layer on the inside of thestrap, that is the foam layer corresponding to the foam layer 34 ofFIGS. 1-5, engaging foam on the base end portion of the strap. The strap10 k is then wrapped, for a second time, across the upper portion of theright arm 102 k which is furthest from the trunk 128 k of the patient.This results in the formation of a loop around the upper portion of theright arm 102 k of the patient.

The strap is then pulled across the posterior side of the patient'strunk. The tension in the main portion 16 k of the strap 10 k firmlypresses the base end portion of the strap 10 k against the skin of thepatient. The tension force and engagement of the layer of foam on themain portion 16 k of the strap 10 k with the layer of foam on theoutside of the base end portion of the strap 10 k holds the main portion16 k of the strap against movement relative to the loop which extendsaround the upper portion of the right arm 102 k of the patient.

The tension in the main portion 16 k of the strap results in the layerof foam on the inside of the main portion of the strap 16 k beingpressed firmly against the posterior side of the trunk 128 k of thepatient. The strap 16 k is then moved through the axilla formed betweenthe upper portion of the left arm 104 k and trunk 128 k of the patient.The strap 10 k is then pulled upward across the left shoulder 124 k(FIG. 28) and then downward and rightward across the posterior side ofthe trunk 128 k of the patient (FIG. 29). The retainer end portion 14 kof the strap 10 k is then pressed firmly against the layer of fabric onthe outside of the main portion 16 k of the strap 10 k to form a loopwhich extends around the left shoulder 124 k and a portion of the trunk128 k of the patient.

When the strap 10 k is pulled downward, in the manner indicated by thearrow in FIG. 29, force is transmitted to body tissue disposed beneaththe strap. This tension force may be utilized to urge one or more bonesin the shoulder 124 k of the patient into a desired relationship. Thetension force is also transmitted through the layer of foam on theinside of the strap 16 k to superficial fascia and deep fascia which aredisposed in the patient's body near the strap.

If desired, a second strap may be connected with the strap 10 k. Thesecond strap may be provided with two retainer end portions,corresponding to the retainer end portion 14 of FIGS. 2 and 4 and nobase end portion, corresponding to the base end portion 12. One of theretainer end portions of the second strap may be connected to theanterior portion of the loop around the right arm 102 k of the patientand extend across the right shoulder 122 k of the patient to the mainportion 16 k of the strap 10 k which extends across the trunk 128 k ofthe patient in a transverse plane. Of course, the second strap could beconnected with the first strap 10 k in a different manner if desired.

In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 28 and 29, asingle strap 10 k is utilized. However, a plurality of straps could beutilized if desired. One of the straps could be wrapped around the upperportion of the right arm 102 k of the patient and the other strap couldbe wrapped around the upper portion of the left arm 104 k of thepatient. The two straps could be interconnected at a central portion ofthe trunk 128 k of the patient. The use of the straps may beparticularly advantageous when treating a fractured clavicle or otherbone in either or both of the shoulders of the patient.

If desired, a single, relatively long strap could be provided to formloops around both shoulders 122 k and 124 k of the patient. Each loop ofthe two loops would extend around one of the shoulders of the patient inthe same manner as in which the strap 10 k extends around the leftshoulder 124 k of the patient in FIGS. 28 and 29. The base end portionof the strap may be positioned at any desired location on the patient,for example, on top of the right shoulder 122 k. The single long strapwould then be wrapped around the right shoulder 122 k for one or moreturns and around the left shoulder 124 k for one or more turns. Theretainer end portion may then be connected with the layer of fabric onthe main portion of the strap.

The strap 10 k which extends around one shoulder 124 k, a plurality ofstraps which extend around both shoulders 122 k and 124 k, or a singlelong strap which extends around both shoulders may be utilized toposition modality and/or a monitor relative to the body to the patient.The modality may include a magnet, electrical stimulator, monitor or icepack. The use of the strap 10 k or a plurality of straps may beadvantageous in holding a monitor, such as a heart monitor, relative tothe body of the patient.

Use of Strap—FIGS. 30 and 31

In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 1-5, the onlyfoam which is exposed on the outer side 20 (FIG. 1) of the strap is thefoam on the base end portion 12 of the strap. The layer 28 of fabricextends across the outer side 20 of the main portion 16 and retainerportion 14 of the strap 10. In the embodiment of the inventionillustrated in FIGS. 30 and 31, foam is exposed at two locations on theouter side of the strap, that is, at the base end portion and at alocation on the main portion of the strap. Since the embodiment of theinvention illustrated in FIGS. 30 and 31 is generally similar to theembodiments of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 1-23, similar numeralswill be utilized to designate similar components, the suffix letter “m”being added to the numerals of FIGS. 30 and 31 to avoid confusion.

A strap 10 m is wrapped around a portion 220 of the patient's body. Asecond strap 224 is connected with the first strap 10 m at anintersection 200 m. The two straps may extend around any desired portionof a patient's body.

In accordance with a feature of this embodiment of the invention, a foamsection 228 (FIG. 31) is provided at the intersection 220 tointerconnect the straps 10 m and 224. The section 228 of foam is fixedlysecured to the layer 28 m of fabric of the strap 10 m at a main portion16 m of the strap 10 m. A layer 34 m of foam on a main section 16 m ofthe strap 224 engages the section 228 of foam. The relatively highcoefficient of friction between the surfaces of the layer 34 m of foamon the strap 224 and the section 228 of foam on the strap 10 m resultsin a secure connection between the two straps.

The strap 10 m has a layer of foam 34 m which engages skin 60 m on bodytissue 174 m. The layer 34 m of foam is fixedly connected to the layer28 m of fabric. The strap 10 m is provided with a base end portion (notshown) corresponding to the base end portion 12 of the strap 20 (FIGS.1, 2 and 5). In addition, the strap 10 m is provided with a retainer endportion corresponding to the retainer end portion of the strap 10 (FIGS.1, 2 and 4).

Unlike the strap 10 of FIGS. 1-5, the strap 10 m (FIG. 31) is providedwith a section 228 of foam which is secured to the outer side of thelayer 28 m of fabric. The section 228 of foam may be secured to thelayer 28 m of fabric in any desired manner. For example, by the use ofadhesive and/or heat staking. The section 228 of foam may be providedwith its own separate backing layer of fabric, that is, with a layercorresponding to the layer 28 m of fabric. Alternatively, the section228 of foam may be bonded directly to the layer 28 m of fabric.

If the section 228 of foam is formed with its own backing layer offabric, the section 228 would be connected with the strap 10 m by heatstaking the section of foam and its associated backing layer of fabricto the main portion 16 m of the strap 10 m. The backing layer of fabricconnected with the section 228 of foam would be disposed in abuttingengagement with the layer 228 m of fabric on the main section 16 m ofthe strap 10 m. However, due to the relatively low coefficient offriction between the two layers of fabric, the section 228 of foam andits backing layer would be fixedly connected with the main portion 16 mof the strap 10 m by suitable fastening, such as heat staking.

In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 30 and 31, asecond strap 224 engages the section 228 of foam on the strap 10 m.However, the section 228 of foam could be disposed on the strap 10 m ata location where a portion of the strap 10 m is overlapped by anotherportion of the strap 10 m. Thus, the section 228 of foam could be usedto provide an anchor at an intersection between sections of a singlestrap 10 m.

CONCLUSION

The present invention relates to a new and improved strap 10 and methodof using the strap for treatment of a patient. Base and second endportions 12 and 14 of the strap 10 may be interconnected by a mainportion 16 of the strap. The base end portion 12 of the strap 10 mayhave opposite sides 48 and 50 with surfaces which are formed of foam.The main portion 16 of the strap may have a first side 22 with a surface31 which is formed of foam 34 and a second side 20 with a surface 26which is formed of fabric 28. If desired, the surfaces formed of foamcould be formed of a different material. A retainer 38 may be connectedwith the second end portion 14 of the strap 10 to connect the second endportion of the strap with the main portion 16 of the strap.

When the strap 10 is to be utilized to treat a patient, a layer 34formed of foam disposed on the first side 22 of the strap 10 may beplaced in engagement with skin 60 on the body of the patient. The baseend portion 12 of the strap 10 is retained against movement relative tothe body of the patient by wrapping the strap 10 around a portion of thebody of the patient and positioning a portion of the layer 34 formed offoam on the first side 22 of the strap in engagement with foam disposedon the second side 20 of the base end portion 12 of the strap. Thesecond end portion 14 of the strap 10 may be connected with a fabriclayer 28 which forms the second side 20 of the strap.

If desired, a plurality of straps 10 g, 120 g and 136 may be utilized inthe treatment of the patient. At least some of these straps 10 g, 120 g,and 136 may have a layer 34 of foam disposed on a first side of thestrap and layer 28 of fabric disposed on the opposite side of the strap.The layers 34 of foam on the first side of the straps may be positionedin engagement with the skin of the patient and the straps may beinterconnected. Interconnecting of the straps may be performed byengaging foam on the second side, that is the fabric side, of a strapwith the layer of foam on the first side of a strap. A retainer 38which, for example, may be a hook and loop type fastener, may beprovided to connect an end portion of one strap with a layer 28 offabric on another strap or with a layer of fabric on the one strap.

It is contemplated that a strap 10 constructed in accordance with thepresent invention may be utilized during the treatment of many differentportions of a patient's body. For example, the strap may be utilized inconjunction with treatment of an arm, hand, leg, foot, shoulder, orother portion of a patient's body. A single strap 10 may be wrappedaround one or more portions of a patient's body. Alternatively, a firststrap 10 g may be wrapped around one portion of a patient's body and asecond strap 136 connected with the first strap and wrapped aroundanother portion of a patient's body.

The strap 10 may be utilized to apply force to deep fascia such asmyofascial tissue. Of course, the strap 10 may also be used to applyforce to superficial fascia. It is contemplated that one or more of thestraps 10 may be used to increase a patient's proprioception. The straps10 may also be utilized to effect shifting of a bone, such as a patella,in the body of a patient. The straps 10 may be used to connect one ormore treatment devices, such as a magnet, electrical stimulator,monitor, or ice pack, with a patient.

1. A treatment apparatus configured to provide electrical stimulation to a leg of a user, the treatment apparatus comprising: an inner layer configured to contact the leg of the user and configured to couple to an electrical stimulus; a retainer fixedly connected to the inner layer; and a fabric layer coupled to the inner layer, the fabric layer configured to releasably couple to the retainer to secure the electrical stimulus against the leg of the user.
 2. The treatment apparatus of claim 1, wherein the retainer includes a plurality of hooks and the fabric layer includes a loop portion configured to releasably engage the plurality of hooks.
 3. The treatment apparatus of claim 1, wherein the inner layer includes a first side configured to contact the leg of the user and a second side, wherein the retainer is fixedly connected to the first side of the inner layer and the fabric layer is coupled to the second side of the inner layer.
 4. The treatment apparatus of claim 1, wherein the inner layer includes an elasticized polymeric material.
 5. The treatment apparatus of claim 1, wherein the inner layer is stretchable in at least one of a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction of the treatment apparatus.
 6. The treatment apparatus of claim 1, wherein the treatment apparatus is circumferentially adjustable and circumferentially conforms to the leg of the user.
 7. The treatment apparatus of claim 1, wherein the treatment apparatus is configured to provide at least one of a compressive force and a tension force on the leg of a user when the treatment apparatus is secured around the leg.
 8. The treatment apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a rigid con-conformable apparatus coupled to the foam layer, the rigid con-conformable apparatus having a concave portion.
 9. The treatment apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a connector strap coupled to the fabric layer.
 10. The treatment apparatus of claim 9, wherein the connector strap is configured to couple to a portion of the electrical stimulus.
 11. An electrical stimulation system for providing electrical stimulation to a user, said system comprising: an electrical stimulator configured to provide an electrical stimulus to the user; and a treatment apparatus configured to couple to the electrical stimulator and substantially retain the electrical stimulator adjacent the user, the treatment apparatus comprising: an inner layer configured to contact the skin of the user and configured to couple to a portion of the electrical stimulator; a retainer fixedly connected to the inner layer; and a fabric layer coupled to the inner layer, the fabric layer configured to releasably couple to the retainer to secure a portion of the electrical stimulator against the skin of the user.
 12. The system of claim 8, wherein the retainer includes a plurality of hooks and the fabric layer includes a loop portion configured to releasably engage the plurality of hooks.
 13. The electrical stimulation system of claim 11, wherein the inner layer includes a first side configured to contact the skin of the user and a second side, wherein the retainer is fixedly connected to the first side of the inner layer and the fabric layer is coupled to the second side of the inner layer.
 14. The electrical stimulation system of claim 11, wherein the inner layer includes an elasticized polymeric material.
 15. The electrical stimulation system of claim 11, wherein the inner layer is stretchable in at least one of a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction of the treatment apparatus.
 16. The electrical stimulation system of claim 11, further comprising a rigid con-conformable apparatus coupled to the foam layer, the rigid con-conformable apparatus having a concave portion.
 17. The electrical stimulation system of claim 11, wherein the treatment apparatus is configured to provide at least one of a compressive force and a tension force on the skin of a user when the treatment apparatus is secured to the user.
 18. The electrical stimulation system of claim 11, further comprising a connector strap coupled to the fabric layer.
 19. A method of providing electrical stimulation to a user, said method comprising: providing an electrical stimulator configured to provide an electrical stimulus to the user; providing a treatment apparatus comprising an inner layer configured to contact the skin of the user, a retainer fixedly connected to the inner layer, and a fabric layer coupled to the inner layer, the fabric layer configured to releasably couple to the retainer; coupling a portion of the electrical stimulator to the treatment apparatus; contacting the skin of the user with a portion of the electrical stimulator and the treatment apparatus; and coupling the retainer to the fabric layer to retain a portion of the electrical stimulator against the skin of the user.
 20. The method of claim 19, wherein providing a treatment apparatus further comprises providing a treatment apparatus comprising inner layer including a first side configured to contact the skin of the user and a second side, wherein the retainer is fixedly connected to the first side of the inner layer and the fabric layer is coupled to the second side of the inner layer. 